Collision Coverage - Auto Insurance & Collision Insurance Guide

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Auto Insurance - Collision

Auto insurance collision coverage comes into effect if your car is damaged by an accident. In this case, 'accident' covers anything from collision with another car to single car accidents (such as roll-overs) and even damage by potholes. Collision auto insurance covers the cost of repairs to your car. Period.

This coverage remains in force whether you are at fault in the accident or not.

Collision auto insurance is relatively expensive coverage. If you have a new car collision auto insurance is likely a good investment. If you have a vehicle which you are driving into the ground don't buy collision auto insurance.

Also keep in mind that you can reduce the cost of collision auto insurance coverage by taking a higher deductible. However, this will expose you to higher costs in the case of an accident. You have to weigh the short term benefit and your driving record against the cost of an accident.

One thing to keep in mind: if an accident is not your fault, your auto insurance company will attempt to recover costs from the 'at fault' driver's auto insurance. If they recover their full costs they will refund you the deductible amount.

Why would you shop around if you were happy with your insurance company? Well, the fact of the matter is that exactly the same coverage can cost you widely different amounts, depending on your insurance company.